34th Annual Red Triangle and Leader to Watch Award Recipients
Saint John, NB— The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick has announced the details of the 2024 Red Triangle Award Gala, including this year’s recipients of the Red Triangle and Leader to Watch Awards.
The Annual Red Triangle Award Gala, presented by Emera New Brunswick, will be held on Thursday, May 16th at the Saint John Regional YMCA. The Red Triangle Award recognizes long and meritorious service, outstanding contributions and achievement in the community, while the Leader to Watch Award honours an individual who is a role model for other young adults in our community.
“Emera New Brunswick would like to congratulate this year’s award recipients,” said Ryan O’Hara, Emera New Brunswick General Manager. “Your commitment and service to the Greater Saint John community has made a tremendous difference to many people. Emera New Brunswick is proud to be part of this community and a part of the Red Triangle Awards. The YMCA has been leading our community for many years, and through this event, they also help recognize the leadership of others.”
The Red Triangle volunteer selection committee received numerous nominations this year and had a difficult choice but came to a unanimous decision in the end. This year’s Red Triangle Award recipient is Julie Dingwell, and the Leader to Watch Award is Laura Oland.
Julie Dingwell, is an important leader in Saint John’s social justice realm for over two decades, transitioned from environmental advocacy to lead Avenue B Harm Reduction in 1999. Her efforts have not only transformed Avenue B into a pillar of harm reduction but also woven a robust social justice fabric across Saint John and beyond.
Laura Oland is a volunteer, board member, and advocate, and her impact reverberates throughout Saint John, making her a truly remarkable individual deserving of recognition and praise. Laura Oland exemplifies the essence of The Leader to Watch Award, showcasing resilience, compassion, and an unyielding dedication to equity within her community and beyond.
The recipients will receive their awards at the 34th Annual Red Triangle Award Gala on Thursday, May 16th. The Funds raised at this event will support the Strong Communities Campaign, ensuring that YMCA programs are accessible to everyone.
“We are thrilled to be honouring such dedicated and community-focused individuals,” said Shilo Boucher, President and CEO of the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick. “For 33 years, The Red Triangle Award has been about celebrating people in the Greater Saint John area who make a difference in the lives of others; role models that lead by example. Julie Dingwell and Laura Oland are making a difference in our community every day.”
Tickets for the Red Triangle Award Gala are $125 each and are on sale now at the Saint John Regional Y and will be available online at https://yswnb.com/2024-Red-Triangle-tickets
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About Julie Dingwell
Julie Dingwell, an important leader in Saint John’s social justice realm for over two decades, transitioned from environmental advocacy to lead Avenue B Harm Reduction in 1999. Her pioneering initiatives, including needle exchange programs and methadone treatment funding, have reshaped responses to HIV/AIDS and substance use locally and nationally. Julie’s collaborative approach bridges sectors, fostering alliances with policymakers and healthcare providers. Her influence extends internationally, notably through the Pig’s Peak project in Swaziland. A tireless advocate, Julie champions evidence-based policies, contributing significantly to research on HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C. Her efforts have not only transformed Avenue B into a pillar of harm reduction but also woven a robust social justice fabric across Saint John and beyond. Julie Dingwell embodies the spirit of The Red Triangle Award, epitomizing resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to equity in her community and beyond.
About Laura
Laura Oland, at just 28 years old, has achieved an extraordinary amount, embodying enthusiasm and leadership in her endeavors. As Chair of Fusion Saint John and Saint John Community Arts Board, she tirelessly promotes the city, showcasing exceptional dedication. Laura’s extensive community involvement, evident in her role as Board Secretary for “Just Us” Clinical Therapy Non-Profit Organization and her participation in various cultural and artistic initiatives, underscores her commitment to uplifting others. Her academic pursuits, including ongoing doctoral studies in History and Art History, reflect a depth of intellect and curiosity. Laura’s contributions extend beyond academia; she engages in public speaking and lectures, shedding light on historical and cultural topics. As a volunteer, board member, and advocate, Laura’s impact reverberates throughout Saint John, making her a truly remarkable individual deserving of recognition and praise. Laura Oland exemplifies the essence of The Leader to Watch Award, showcasing resilience, compassion, and an unyielding dedication to equity within her community and beyond.
About YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick
The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick is a trusted charity that ignites the potential in people, fostering lasting personal and social change. We are committed to providing opportunities for people to shine through a variety of programs and services, including health, fitness and recreation, licensed child care, camps, outdoor education, employment, education, newcomer services, leadership development and volunteer opportunities. With over 19 locations and supporting more than 45,000 people in Southwestern New Brunswick, the Y is a leading charity that helps everyone shine.
Media Contact:
Erin Lawlor
Manager of Marketing and Communications,
YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick
e.lawlor@saintjohny.ca
506-608-6200